Competencies can be determined by two different methods. One converts role statements derived from observation and description of tasks performed by school counselors into the competencies required to execute the role. The second employs transposition of counselor role statements based on objectives and program elements necessary to change client behavior into competencies necessary to fulfill the role. This article proposes that the a priori approach, characteristic of the second technique, is better and can be improved significantly by using sixteen steps based on principles from the discipline of business and industrial management. The result is a proper foundation for the establishment of valid school counselor competencies on which the competency‐based preparation program can be buil